Spirit of Norfolk Frequently Asked Questions

2012 Spirit Sweepstakes Rules and Regulations (pdf)

Attire. What is the dress code on the Spirit of Norfolk?

Dinner Cruises - For men, appropriate attire includes slacks and a polo or button down shirt. For women, nice slacks, Capri pants or a sundress is recommended. Although allowed, we strongly discourage collarless t-shirts, jeans, shorts or sneakers.

All Other Cruises - These cruises are more relaxed and casual attire is fine. Shirts and shoes are always required. No bathing suits.

If you have any doubt with our dress code, please call our office at (757) 625-1463.

Boarding. What is "Boarding Time" and "Cruising Time?"

"Boarding Time" is the earliest our guests may board the ship. Typically we begin boarding 1/2 hour prior to the "Cruise Time." Tickets may be picked up at our dockside kiosk up-to one hour prior to the cruise.

Cancellations. What is your cancellation policy?

We regret there are no refunds or exchanges. All sales are final. We cruise year-round, rain or shine. In the rare event the Coast Guard prohibits cruising because of weather, we will contact you to make other arrangements.

Children. Are there any age requirements?

Children of all ages are welcome on our lunch and dinner cruises. However, on Club Norfolk Midnight Moonlight cruises all passengers must be 21 years or older with valid photo ID. Children under 3 are complimentary and a discount is offered for children between the ages of 3 and 12 on select Lunch Cruises. Call 866.304.2469 for details.

Coast Guard Regulations. Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?

Yes. The Spirit of Norfolk is Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to adhere to strict safety regulations.

Cruise Route. Where does the Spirit of Norfolk go?

The ship departs from Otter Berth at Town Point Park next to The Waterside Mall. While sailing routes may vary, the Spirit of Norfolk generally cruises the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor past the Norfolk skyline and the Norfolk Naval Base where you can see the mighty ships and aircraft carriers of the Atlantic Fleet when they are in port. See our cruise route.

Dancing. What kind of dance music do you play?

Our lunch and dinner cruises feature a full range of popular dance tunes spun by some of the city’s hottest DJs. Selections may include Rock, Blues, Line Dances, Motown, Oldies, Salsa, Hip Hop, Country, and current chart-toppers from every musical genre.

Directions. How do I get to the ship?

The Spirit of Norfolk departs from the Otter Berth which is next to the Waterside Mall in downtown Norfolk. See detailed directions.

Drinks. What do drinks cost?

Mixed drinks start at $5.75 for standard brand liquors, $6.75 for premium drinks. All beer is sold by the bottle, with domestic beers for $4.50 and imported for $4.75. Wine begins at $5.00 per glass. Soft drinks are $2.20 each and juice is available for $2.50 each. These prices do not include taxes or fees. Prices may be subject to change.

Entertainment. What type of entertainment is offered?

Sit back and relax on one of our climate-controlled decks. Dine on the bountiful buffet. Watch your talented wait-staff as they delight you with their up-beat renditions of popular favorites. Then kick it into high gear as your Spirit DJ spins popular dance hits. Day or night, Spirit is alive with vibrant entertainment.

Gift Certificates. How can I purchase gift certificates?

Spirit Gift Certificates are available from $50 to $400 and may be purchased online or by calling 866.304.2469. Printed gift certificates come with an elegant presentation holder. Spirit Cruises will continue to honor any previously issued Gift Certificates that contained a listed expiration date.

Purchase gift certificates online.

Groups. What size group can Spirit of Norfolk accommodate?

The Spirit of Norfolk can host parties of two to 450 guests. Groups of 20 or more should visit our group website or contact our group sales department at 866.451.3866 for reservations. Parties of 1 to 19 can book online or call 866.304.2469.

Handicap accessibility. Is the ship handicap accessible?

Yes. Our ship can accommodate wheelchairs for boarding and provides a handicap-accessible restroom. Please notify us of any special-assistance members in your party prior to the cruise so we can provide the appropriate assistance upon arrival. Disabled parkers with valid handicapped license plates and/or hanging tags may park free at any on-street metered space for the posted time. Visit www.norfolk.gov for more information.

Hotel. Can you recommend a hotel in the area?

Yes, we recommend the Marriott Hotel: (757) 627.4200, the Sheraton Hotel: (757) 622.6664 and the Courtyard Marriott: (757) 963.6000. For more complete information, you can call the Norfolk Visitor's Bureau: (757) 664.6620.

Menu. What type of food is served?

Our cruises feature all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner buffets with delicious choices prepared on board by our executive chefs and their galley staffs. With advance notice, we can accommodate requests for kosher meals, and we can arrange special meals for guests with allergies. Other specialty menus are available for deck or full-ship charters

Club Norfolk Moonlight Cruise. What does it include?

Spirit offers Club Norfolk Moonlight Cruises on select dates throughout the year featuring open seating, lively DJs, rockin’ dance tunes, late-night snacks and cash bars. Passengers must be age 21 or older with a valid photo ID.

Packages. Can gifts be carried onboard?

Yes, gifts are allowed onboard our vessel. However, WE DO NOT ALLOW WRAPPED PACKAGES to be carried onto the ship. This policy is in ordinance with Homeland Security Marine safety regulations. Therefore, please bring your gift unwrapped, in its original packaging, or use a gift bag that can easily be searched.

Parking. Is there parking close to the ship?

The Spirit of Norfolk departs from the Otter Berth which is next to the Waterside Mall in downtown Norfolk. See detailed parking directions.

Payment. What type of payment do you accept?

Payment is required in full at the time of the reservation. We accept major credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and Diner's Club. We also accept traveler's checks, money orders, and certified checks. Please send checks or money orders to the address below:

Phones. Will my cell phone work on the cruise?

Yes, your cell phone will work on the cruise. For the comfort of other guests, we ask that cell phone conversations be held on the outside decks.

Photographs. I would like to purchase a boarding photograph from a recent cruise?

We use Photogenic for all of the photos taken when boarding the Spirit of Norfolk. If you have cruised with us in the last 30 days and would like a photo or have a question regarding your photo, please email them at Norphotos@photogenicinc.com.

Pricing & Schedules.

Prices are for ticket only and do not include taxes or fees, beverages or enhancements. Prices and schedules are subject to change. Some more popular cruises and dates may be priced higher.

Refund Policy. Do you offer refunds?

We regret there are no refunds or exchanges. All sales are final. We cruise year-round, rain or shine. In the rare event the Coast Guard prohibits cruising because of weather, we will contact you to make other arrangements.

Reservations. How can I make reservations for a cruise?

While parties of 19 or fewer are often able to walk up and purchase tickets on the day of a cruise, reservations are highly recommended. You can purchase tickets online via our reservations system or by phone.

Individuals:
• Call 866.304.2469 or use our Reservations System to Book your Cruise Online!

For groups of 20 or more call:
• 866.451.3866
• Monday - Friday between 8:30am - 5:30pm

Seasickness. Is seasickness ever a problem?

Seasickness is rarely a problem. The waterways where we sail are simply not that rough, and our ship is designed to ride smoothly. If you are VERY sensitive to seasickness, you may want to take the necessary precautions just to be on the safe side.

Seating. How is seating arranged on board?

Our ships feature cruise style seating. The majority of our tables accommodate four to eight people and guests are sometimes seated with other parties. Review the enhancement packages available on your date for private seating upgrades.

Ship Information. Can you tell me a little bit about the Spirit of Norfolk?

The Spirit of Norfolk offers a sleek and fresh approach to dining and dancing on the water. It is handicap accessible and Coast Guard approved for up to 450 passengers. Amenities include full service bars, two dance floors (or staging areas), flexible seating arrangements and large outdoor patio deck.

Congratulations to our Summer Sweepstakes Winner!

Congratulations to Michael P. the winner of Spirit's Dinner Party for Ten Summer Sweepstakes. He will experience a fun and festive dinner cruise featuring an engaging assortment of bountiful buffets, live entertainment, DJ music for dancing and spectacular views.

Smoking. What is your smoking policy?

All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking areas. Passengers who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks.

Tickets. Where can I pick up the cruise tickets?

Tickets can be conveniently picked up at the dock, up to one hour prior to boarding, on the day of the cruise. The credit card used for purchase and photo ID will be required.

Weather. What happens if the weather is bad?

We sail in all types of weather. Our two climate-controlled indoor decks shield you from outdoor conditions. However, our Ticket Booth and Boarding areas are not sheltered, so please dress appropriately. In the event of severe storms, please contact our Sales Office to get up to the minute information.

Weddings Events. How much does a wedding event on the Spirit cost?

It depends on the event (engagement party, shower, bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, wedding & reception, post-wedding luncheon, etc.), the number of guests, the time of year and the package you choose. Our expert wedding planners will be happy to give you a cost proposal. Find out more or call 866.451.3866.